The course covers the inherent constraints placed on the physical form and design of built environments by human nature and our basic need for shelter, water, movement, food and specialized urban functions such as barter and defense in the founding and locating of cities. The course covers knowledge that is rarely taught or even spoken about but which we are expected to bring along with us and already intuitively understand based on our everyday experience of built environments. These generic aspects of form and function play a profound, continuous role in limiting the possibilities for shaping our buildings and settlements (1.0 hour course).